Easy Homemade White Bread – Soft, Golden & Comforting
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. This Easy Homemade White Bread recipe is simple, reliable, and produces a soft, golden loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying warm with butter. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little patience, you can create bakery‑style bread right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beginner‑friendly: No fancy equipment required.
Soft & fluffy: Perfect texture for everyday use.
Versatile: Great for sandwiches, toast, or French toast.
Budget‑friendly: Uses basic ingredients you already have.
Ingredients
2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
3 ½ cups all‑purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make Dough
Stir in salt, melted butter, and 2 cups flour to form a smooth batter. Gradually add remaining flour, ½ cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead
Turn dough onto a floured surface. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 4: First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise in a warm place 1–2 hours, until doubled.
Step 5: Shape & Second Rise
Punch down dough and shape into a loaf. Place in greased 9×5‑inch pan. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes, until doubled.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 7: Cool & Slice
Remove from oven. Cool on wire rack before slicing. Enjoy warm or store for later.
Tips & Tricks
Check yeast: If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive.
Crispier crust: Brush loaf with melted butter after baking.
Storage: Wrap tightly and store at room temp for 3 days, or freeze up to 3 months.
Flavor boost: Add garlic powder, herbs, or honey to the dough.
Variations
Whole Wheat Bread: Replace half the flour with whole wheat.
Herb Loaf: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
Cheesy Bread: Fold in shredded cheddar before shaping.
Dinner Rolls: Divide dough into 12 portions and bake in a muffin tin.
Serving Ideas
Toast with butter and jam for breakfast.
Use for sandwiches or grilled cheese.
Pair with soups and stews.
Make French toast with leftover slices.
FAQs
Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
Yes—skip the proofing step and mix directly with flour.
Q: Can I knead with a stand mixer?
Absolutely—use the dough hook for 5–6 minutes.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in two loaf pans or one larger pan.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 2–3 hours
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~3 ½ hours
Servings: 1 loaf (~12 slices)
Final Thoughts
This Easy Homemade White Bread is soft, golden, and comforting—a timeless recipe that proves baking bread at home doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store‑bought loaves.